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Episode 226

On August 15, 1945,

Oshin's life changed drastically with the end of World War II.

Her husband, Ryuzo had killed himself.

Yuu, her eldest son, had been killed in action.

All the war bonds that she and Ryuzo had bought

were but worthless pieces of paper.

Oshin had to work as a black marketeer

to feed her and her children.

That's when Hisa, her old benefactor,

reappeared to help her again.

From that day, Oshin began a new life.

Four years passed, and it was now 1950.

Oshin was already 50 years old.

Keep your eyes straight ahead!

Keep your foot on the gas pedal!

That's it!

Who told you to stop?

It stopped when I stepped on the gas pedal.

No! You hit the brakes!

Did I?

One more time.

Start the engine, and step on the clutch!

When will you learn!

Oh, stop it!

This jalopy is too old...

There you go!

Give it up... You're too old to drive.

Besides, you're a woman. Just keep working at your store.

Let the customers come to you!

You have enough business as it is.

Some people live too far away.

Then let someone else deliver fish to them.

The villagers are all waiting for me.

You can run the store,

but nobody else can deliver fish to the villagers like I can!

You can't go if you can't drive.

That's why I'm practicing!

It could take a very long time!

Here I go!

[Tanokura Store]

You were waiting for me?

I came by to see how your store was doing.

It sure is hard to start a business.

It's a lot easier peddling fish from a cart!

I hear you've been practicing to drive.

Yes, but I have a lousy teacher!

What if you should get into an accident?

She won't listen to me.

You worked hard for four years,

and now you've reopened your own fish store!

Let Hitoshi and Nozomi do the rest.

And take it easy.

They can't work hard enough to feed us all.

No use having a store if no customers come.

I know what I'm doing!

It takes time for a free economy to take hold.

Soon there will be more to sell.

The days of the black markets are over.

That's why it's important to have a store front.

Making deliveries is old-fashioned.

I'm not against having this store,

but it's just that we've peddled fish for four years.

People depend on us. We can't just stop coming by.

Don't worry! Hitoshi and Nozomi both gave up

on going to college to be able to help you.

And they sure know their stuff!

Don't flatter them. They're both only 21!

They talk big, but know very little.

Let me make you tea.

You're very good...

Nozomi is so artistic!

I had no idea he was so talented.

These signs are cute!

They will brighten up the store.

This is about all I can do. I'm not really good at business.

You peddled fish for four years with your mother!

I just carried heavy loads and ran errands.

You were a big help.

Before we got the three-wheeler,

I could never have done it all without you.

Here you go.

I still remember the day

Hitoshi got his driver's license and went out,

and bought the three-wheeler!

I was so happy that day...

Retail sure is funny...

I started off just selling fish and vegetables.

Then people started asking for other things, too.

Now we're selling everything!

One can never second guess one's own fate...

I'm going to the Health office.

Nozomi and I will stay there tonight.

- See you later! - Take care.

We'd better bring some household goods here.

You'll be moving in...?

I'd like to move here before the store opens.

That means I will be lonely again...

Now that we're moving,

we won't get to see the ocean anymore.

We'll be living in a much smaller house.

But we'll be closer to your school.

I'm not going to high school!

My brothers didn't go to high school either.

So I'm staying home to help with the store after I graduate from middle school.

I want you to go on to college.

Your brothers had it bad just after the war.

They had to help me run the business.

But I want you to go to college.

We're heavily in debt!

Don't worry! I can take care of it.

I'll go make dinner, so get your things packed.

Will the day ever come when I can buy whatever I want?

Have you forgotten the days

when we only had rice porridge to eat every day?

You used to say you'd die for a bowl of white rice.

I'm sorry. I didn't know you were here.

Thank you for all your help.

You found us a very good location.

I just happened to know of its availability.

And thank you for the loan, too.

Legally, I'm your creditor.

Kota has helped me so much.

I can never repay you for all the trouble

that I caused you in the past.

I'd like to help you all I can now.

I wouldn't think of it.

You've always been a great help to us.

But I want to keep the fact that I'm helping you

from Hitoshi and Nozomi, so they don't get the wrong idea.

So please don't tell your children about me.

Kids can be difficult.

If they misunderstand your platonic relationship,

all that Kota has done would be for nothing.

I'm sorry to cause you so much concern.

Your children mean everything to you.

They helped support you

after you lost Yuu and your husband.

I'm glad for that.

All three of them are so nice. You are so lucky.

Soon you will be living a carefree life!

I couldn't even send the boys to college.

Yet they seem to understand me.

But I think I've infected them with my business bug.

All they want to do now is work and earn money!

Don't talk like that. What if they'd gone astray?

I'm glad.

I was concerned about how your store was coming along.

I guess you'll be opening up soon.

Kota is rebuilding his store, too.

Things are getting back to normal.

I want to rebuild before the prices go up.

I'm nothing, but an old liquor store owner now.

That's true...

You're no longer that social reformer you once were!

You're a nice father and husband now.

Let's not dredge up the past now.

You're right.

The war has been over for five years.

People are beginning to forget about the war.

Ms. Tanokura? I have mail for you!

I'll be right there.

Excuse me.

[Hatsuko]

Kota is going home.

- Is it from Hatsuko again? - Yes.

Still no return address?

Such a strange girl...

She's been sending you money every month for four years now.

But nobody knows where she is.

I'm sure she is worried about us.

But she doesn't have to do this anymore.

Without a return address, I have no way of telling her that!

You took care of her like she was your own.

She's trying to pay you back.

How is she earning this money?

Hatsuko was intended to have been Yuu's bride.

But there was still no way of locating her.

With each envelope she sent, Oshin's heart ached for her.

The war wasn't over for Oshin yet.

Not until she can see Hatsuko again.

Episode 227

Hold up your end!

- What else is left? - The tea table.

Be careful!

You sure have a couple of good boys...

Hitoshi and Nozomi are both so loyal to you.

They help you out, and now you're all able to run your own store!

Who knows how it will all turn out...

During the war, you had it rough.

But to be able to run a business with your sons

is more than anyone can ask for.

We owe it all to you.

You put us up when we had nowhere to go.

I'll be forever grateful.

Oh, come on... I enjoyed it.

It was as if I were living with my own daughter and grandchildren.

I've made some seasoned rice for you.

so take it with you.

Since you're moving, you'll be too busy to cook.

Thank you.

It was 20 years ago that you moved out of here the last time.

Ryuzo and Yuu were with you then.

Ryuzo had come from Saga,

and you all decided to open a fish store.

The three of you moved out of here.

You seemed so happy then.

But both Ryuzo and Yuu are gone now...

One can never tell about one's fate.

We live under a democracy now. It's hard to believe

that Kota used to be chased around by the secret police!

Now there are no big land- owners or sharecroppers.

How the times have changed!

Who knows what other changes will take place.

It's best to forget about the past,

and start all over from scratch.

I learned very young how miserable it was

to be a poor sharecropper's daughter.

It was my dream to own a big store.

I've been chasing that dream for all these years,

and having it destroyed so many times.

Now I'm 50 years old.

But I haven't given up on that dream yet.

I'll keep at it until the day I die!

I don't mind how small it is.

I have to have a store I can call my own.

Otherwise, I won't know what I've lived for up until now.

Do your best!

Peace has brought us the freedom to choose.

One can make one's own way in the world!

Your day has come!

I think we have too much inventory for the size of our store.

It's better crowded than empty.

I think the sweets should be put out in the front.

The colors will brighten up the place.

I wish we had more space.

I want to sell a wider selection of things.

This isn't a department store. We're a convenience store!

One day, I'll operate a department store.

Each department will be as big as a small store.

It's good to dream.

Just don't run this store into the ground.

Hitoshi! Nozomi!

I got my driver's license!

You did!

Now I can go anywhere on my own!

I'll do the buying of our fish and vegetables.

Then you'll be the busiest one here.

I can still carry my own weight.

Where's the space to sell fish and vegetables?

We have too much inventory now.

I've decided to reduce the fish and vegetable section.

People only buy those things in the late afternoon.

We can put out a table in the street then.

That's nonsense!

We are supposed to be a fish store.

The other things are for people's convenience.

Selling fish comes first!

Clear these things out to make room, so we can sell fish.

If we go into this half-heartedly, we can't build our reputation.

Remember, we are a fish store first!

I don't want to just sell fish and vegetables.

I want to be able to sell a wide range of things!

There's a limit to what we can do with this space.

Hurry up and clear this area!

She doesn't understand!

It can't be helped... This is her store.

We can't make much selling fish and vegetables!

It's not a smart way to run a business!

I'm sick of this!

Hitoshi!

[Grand Opening]

[Tanokura Store]

Welcome!

Our fish are caught fresh daily!

And our vegetables come straight from the farms!

We sell freshness at a bargain!

Today is our grand opening, so everything is discounted.

- You want this for sashimi? - Thank you!

This looks delicious!

It's in season now.

- I'll take it. - Thank you.

Daikon radish and spinach!

Here's your daikon radish and spinach.

You will have to work a lot faster.

It's not like making deliveries on a three-wheeler.

We have to sell the bulk of things within a limited time.

You did a lousy job of cutting fish, too.

As a fish dealer, you'd better do a better job!

You can do it if you put your mind to it.

How much profit can we make from this?

Before you think like that, you'd better start thinking

about establishing a reputation for our store.

We didn't sell any of the other merchandise today.

People only think of us as a fish and vegetable store.

There's nothing wrong with that.

I don't want to be a fish dealer forever!

Stop dreaming!

You should be grateful for what you have.

Until we can be certain that our store will succeed,

we'd better continue to peddle our goods.

It's not easy starting a new business.

Oshin knew that through her earlier experiences.

Hitoshi and Nozomi had both given up on the idea of going to college,

in order to make this new business work.

The word "failure" was not in Oshin's vocabulary.

Five sardines!

Look at this daikon radish. It's a good batch.

You're right.

Take the vehicle around to the back.

Okay.

Welcome!

We have good shrimp for tempura today.

I hear that a war has broken out in Korea.

Another war?

The North is fighting the South,

and the Americans have sent their troops to the South.

I sure hope Japan doesn't get involved in that.

Japan no longer has a military,

but Korea is our neighbor, so it's got me worried.

No more war for me!

The sea bream looks good.

Thank you!

We'd better eat while we can.

You're right. If there's another war,

there won't be any boats going out to fish.

- Hello, Oshin. - Hisa!

A special delivery letter came for you.

I was going to wait until tomorrow,

but I figured I'd better get it to you quickly.

Just in case it's an emergency.

Thank you.

We've been so busy here.

I haven't had time to tell people that we moved.

I wanted to see how you were doing.

Welcome!

I'm too busy to entertain you properly.

Never mind! I'll make dinner for you.

Finish cutting this sashimi for me.

Okay.

Thank you for starting dinner for me.

I brought you some beef to cook with potatoes.

Thank you so much.

I enjoy coming here to help you.

You seem to be selling very well.

We've only been in business 10 days.

But the people already know that we sell

the freshest foods at a good price.

Some of our customers come from very far away!

Word travels fast.

Nozomi sold all our vegetables, so we have none for us to eat!

I'm sorry. Shall I go buy some vegetables?

That's okay.

To be sold out. You can't ask for more.

People buy nothing but fish and vegetables.

You can make ends meet on that alone.

You have already built up a reputation.

We can't rest easy yet.

But I guess you can carry on without me now.

I won't be able to sell from our three-wheeler...

What's the problem?

I have to rush to Tokyo.

Tokyo?

They've found Hatsuko!

I'd asked people to look for her.

Who is this Ken?

He's the man who first brought Hatsuko to us.

Is he sure that it's Hatsuko?

He knows her better than anyone else.

There's no mistake!

Where is she?

He doesn't say, but she's alive and well.

What does she do for a living?

I'll have to go there and see.

You have just opened up your store.

This is no time to be going off to Tokyo.

I must go.

I raised Hatsuko like my own daughter.

Now that I know where she is, I must go and get her.

The war left her hurt and broken.

That's why she left us.

The war won't even be over for me,

until I know that Hatsuko is happy.

Episode 228

Can you trust this man Ken?

Yes, he has helped me out a lot in the past.

Since the postmark on Hatsuko's letters said Tokyo,

I wrote him, and asked for his help in locating her.

It was Ken who first brought Hatsuko to us.

But I'd half given up on the idea of Ken finding her.

Tokyo is a very large city.

I was hoping Hatsuko would come back to us on her own,

but it's been four years.

If she's really been found, why didn't he tell us

where she is, and what she's doing?

I'll find out when I go there.

That's what sounds fishy to me.

Why would Ken lie to me?

Because you're taking money, aren't you?

I might need it in an emergency.

I've been saving the money Hatsuko sent us.

Just make sure that you don't get swindled!

Ken isn't like that!

The people you trust can be the most dangerous.

People have changed since the war.

Maybe he's desperately in need of money now.

How can you think like that!

Just be sure that you run the store properly.

I will be back as soon as I'm done.

But who knows what delays I will run into.

People trust us to sell fish and vegetables.

Don't disappoint our customers.

Yes, I know.

You mind the kitchen.

When I was your age...

Yes, I know.

If you need to get in touch with me...

The Hasegawa Beauty Parlor.

I don't know if she'll be able to put me up,

but I'll contact you when I know for sure.

We know all that.

Oshin rushed to Tokyo. She felt unsure

about leaving her store in the care of Hitoshi and Nozomi,

but she had to find out about Hatsuko.

Oshin rushed to see Taka, her hairdressing teacher.

It was 20 years since she was last in Tokyo.

Excuse me.

Is there a Hasegawa Beauty Parlor around here?

Taka!

Oshin?

Is that really you?

It's been so long!

Ken told me you might be coming out here.

I'd meant to contact you first, but everything happened so quickly.

I'm glad you came.

You're looking well.

So are you.

I'm an old woman now.

The last time you came was when you came to look for Okayo.

How old are you now?

I'm 50 now.

It seems like just yesterday...

Let's go inside and talk.

You're here already?

Oshin sent me a telegram saying that she'll be arriving today.

Mrs. Tanokura.

Ken!

Thank you for finding Hatsuko.

You should've told me what train you were coming on.

I would have met you at the station.

I'll be needing your help again.

Don't stand there talking. Come on inside.

I'm sorry to hear about Ryuzo and Yuu.

I can't believe Yuu was killed in the war.

I still remember carrying him around on my shoulders.

When you wrote to tell me, I couldn't stop crying.

We all had a hard time in the war...

But I didn't expect Ryuzo to die.

I respect your late husband now.

Many people got rich off the war,

but I haven't heard of any of them taking responsibility for their actions.

But think of those he left behind.

He did it his own way. I think it's all right.

That's just like you to say so.

My in-laws both died believing that their son died as a samurai.

Ryuzo must be happy, too.

Those mean in-laws in Saga are dead, too?

I don't hold any grudges.

My mother-in-law was doing what she thought was proper.

I just didn't understand that at the time.

You're going to be a mother-in-law soon.

I don't like how the young people are today.

Maybe I'll be worse than my mother-in-law!

So I'll keep my energy focused on my business instead.

I'm lucky. I have no family to think of.

I just do enough to feed myself day to day.

Some of the geisha only let Taka touch their hair.

There aren't many people who can do

the traditional style of hair, so I'm lucky.

Once I die, they will probably tear the house down.

That's why I haven't done anything to it.

You've just started up your new store, haven't you?

I don't know how it will turn out.

I've run many businesses into the ground in the past.

We've all done that...

Since the Great Kanto Earthquake and World War II

so much has happened to us.

People have told me that I should hire people,

and expand the business.

But I don't need to make money at my age.

I just want to live out my life years in peace.

No more earthquakes and no more wars!

This war in Japan is good for Japan.

A lot of American money is coming into Japan now.

You know. It is all Mt. Fuji and geisha girls!

Are you still in the street peddling business?

No. I quit my yakuza life during the war.

Things and people have all changed.

Because of my past, I can't get an honest job.

So I deal in American surplus goods now.

It's not all that legal though.

That's how I ran into Hatsuko.

So that's it. What is she doing now?

Where is she?

You saw her, didn't you?

I didn't want her to recognize me and run off somewhere...

But I know it was her.

I thought it would be better if we both went to see her.

Can we see her right away?

She's no longer the Hatsuko you remember.

Just keep that in mind.

What do you mean?

Everybody's had a very rough time.

And it's nobody's fault.

We can't blame anyone. And we shouldn't blame anyone.

You must be hungry, I'll make breakfast.

Stay and join us.

No. My wife has breakfast waiting for me.

I'll come for you later this afternoon.

So rest up until then.

You must be tired from your trip.

Welcome home.

You have fish left.

Did you buy more than usual today?

We have never had any left over before.

I can't sell it like Mother can. People don't trust me.

Don't say that...

If they don't see her, they don't buy!

Besides, I didn't want to beg people to buy.

I'm not good at cutting the fish either.

So I feel bad pushing it.

I can't do it all without Mother here.

- There you go. - Thank you.

Did you get a good rest?

Thank you.

I'm sorry I'm not helping you.

I don't get that many customers anyway.

This brings back so many memories...

I haven't touched hair since my injury.

Does it still bother you?

It's better, but I can't carry heavy things,

or do detailed work using my fingers.

If I could still do hair, I wouldn't be selling fish!

Too bad...

You worked so hard in learning the art of hairdressing.

I have no regrets.

I still haven't forgotten the fortitude you instilled in me,

so I'm tough!

Sorry I had to leave you this morning.

Shall we go?

It'll take us about an hour to get there.

What kind of life is Hatsuko leading now?

She's been sending me money every month for the past four years!

But she's never written to tell us what she's doing.

What's she thinking about anyway?

Let's go.

We might be late, but don't worry.

I'll make sure she gets back safely.

- Take care of her. - I will.

I'll wait up for you.

Thank you.

I hope you get to see her.

Ken didn't say what Hatsuko was doing.

And that worried Oshin.

As Oshin silently followed Ken,

she remembered how Hatsuko had broken down,

and cried upon hearing of Yuu's death.

Episode 229

Is this where Hatsuko is?

What is she doing here?

Wait here for me.

But be careful. Some men might approach you.

Try not to stand out. I'll be right back.

- Come back again. - Sure, I will.

- Goodbye! - Bye.

What do you want?

I'm waiting for someone. Give me a drink.

Alright.

Hatsuko, it's been a long time.

I spotted you the last time I was here.

I hear you work out of this bar.

I need to talk to you. Come on outside.

- Hey, girls! - Hi!

Hey, babe. Come here and sit down with me.

Hatsuko!

Don't get in the way of my business!

Just follow me outside!

Sorry, but I don't take Japanese customers.

- Hatsuko! - Don't call me Hatsuko!

My name is Akemi, and I don't know you!

What do you do? Are you crazy?

Stop!

- What do you want?! - Listen to me!

Mrs. Tanokura is here to take you home.

Hatsuko!

Hatsuko! Hatsuko!

Hatsuko!

Stop this!

I'm 60 years old!

Don't make an old man run after you!

Please, let me go!

I can't face her.

I'm not Hatsuko anymore. She died a long time ago!

Hatsuko...

Take that makeup off. It doesn't suit you.

Please go!

The Hatsuko you remember died with Yuu!

Forget her, and don't ever come here again!

Hatsuko...

I'm having a good time.

So leave me alone!

See? It comes right off.

That's my Hatsuko!

This is the Hatsuko I love so much.

Nothing has changed...

You're just as you were before.

Mother!

Hatsuko...

It's an American soft drink, so you may not like it.

But this is all I have.

I have canned corned beef if you're hungry.

Hatsuko...

Shall I order you some noodles?

Come home to Ise with me.

Hitoshi, Nozomi and Tei are all waiting for you.

Mother...

I can't ever face them again.

Hatsuko.

I have no regrets.

The day I found out that Yuu was really dead,

I wanted to die.

I left home,

because I wanted to go off somewhere to die by myself.

But I didn't die,

and I went along with an American who propositioned me.

That's when I realized that I was as good as dead.

I don't want to hear about your past!

And I don't want to have to tell you,

but it's the only way you'll forget me.

Forget about it all.

Once I crossed that line, things got easier...

I'm no longer a part of the world you live in.

I drifted here.

This is all the money you sent me over the years.

I didn't spend a single yen.

Mother!

I wanted to have it for you when you came home.

That's ridiculous!

I'd sent the money to help you out!

I knew you were being forced to leave the house,

Hitoshi, Nozomi and Tei needed money for school.

That's why!

You were living like this so that you could send us money?

Once I got over wanting to die, I had to make a living somehow.

In this line of work, nobody bothers you.

It's the best way for a woman who's already dead...

I sent you money to repay you for all that you did for me.

I wanted you to use it.

How can I spend money like this?

It pained me every time you sent money to me.

I blamed myself for causing you to leave...

I wouldn't be able to face Yuu.

Don't mention Yuu anymore.

Let's go home. You're still my daughter.

I think of you as Yuu's wife...

Do you really enjoy what you do?

Do you think it's fun and enjoyable?

Back in Ise, I can't offer you any luxuries,

but I don't want you living like this.

I don't want you doing this!

I'd like to come home to you, too.

All we ever ate was dumpling soup. But I remember how nice it was

to be able to site down together at the table.

That was real happiness...

If you owe people money, use this to repay them.

And thank them for their help.

Pack up and leave with me now!

Forget all about the last four years!

Let's work together. I want you to help me!

Sell all these things in your room to some junk dealer.

All of your clothes, too.

I can buy you some new clothes.

Let's pack up right now! Come on.

You're going home?

Thank you for everything.

I didn't do this to receive thanks.

Your path and mine have crossed many times.

I'm happy to be of help to you!

I'm so glad that Hatsuko is going home with you.

Thank you very much.

I had no idea that it was you who took care of me

when I first came out from Yamagata.

You were just about this tall then.

And I'm nothing but an old man now.

No wonder you didn't recognize me.

I have been trying to get them to stay longer.

Sure. It's not often that you come to Tokyo.

Who knows when you will be back.

I might not be around the next time.

Don't say that.

You and Ken promised me

that you'd come to visit the Ise Shrine, didn't you?

I'll be waiting.

You've helped me every time I needed help.

We'll get to Ise one day.

I hate parting. I guess I'm getting old.

Please come back to see us.

Let's all live a long time

and enjoy this new Japan we live in.

We can't die yet!

Let's all make lots of money, too!

Right!

Oshin had spent about five days in Tokyo.

Now she and Hatsuko were back in Ise.

This is the same section of town

where you had your first fish store.

I still have some old customers from before.

I'm sure some of them remember you, too.

Hitoshi! Nozomi!

- Welcome home. - Welcome home!

How did it go? Did you find Hatsuko?

What's going on here?

People took our merchandise...

Thieves?

No... We couldn't sell anything.

So when payment was due, we didn't have any money,

so the suppliers took back all their things.

It can't be helped...

Mother.

- It's Hatsuko! - Hatsuko!

Episode 230

What's so funny? It's no laughing matter!

I'm sorry, but...

Those guys are bad.

We told them that we'd pay up as soon as you got back.

But they came in trucks and took everything away!

I'd forgotten all about those payments.

I was too busy with finding Hatsuko.

I'm sorry. It's all my fault.

Don't apologize. It's all Mother's fault!

You're the one who wanted to sell sundries, too.

It was your responsibility!

Suppliers need money, too. If they put off getting paid,

they won't have capital to work with.

And there are a lot of new stores out there.

I told them that you'd be back shortly.

And we've known them all a long time!

They wouldn't take our word for anything.

That's how business is,

and there's a lot of competition among wholesalers, too.

Whose side are you on?

The confusion of the post-war period is over.

A business has to be run properly now!

Please go talk to the suppliers. They won't even talk to me!

Let's forget about selling sundries.

But, Mother...!

To tell you the truth,

I was in a jam to pay those suppliers.

Nothing was selling.

Even if I'd paid for them,

it would've been a waste of money to let the merchandise just sit.

I'm glad they took it all back.

They had every right to demand payment.

I should thank them for taking it all back!

We'll just concentrate on selling fish and vegetables.

This should have taught you a lesson, too.

We can still make the business grow.

We start taking orders like your father did.

And we can sell tsukudani and dried fish, too.

I'm sorry. We shouldn't be bickering now.

I feel badly. You don't have it easy here.

Running a store is no easy matter.

I feel badly for having you come back to this,

but I need you to be my trusted confidant.

She's right.

Mother doesn't think much of us.

We're glad you came home! Right, Mother?

I'm sure it was Yuu who brought us back together again.

- I'm home! - Welcome home.

- Mother, you're back? - Yes.

- It's Hatsuko! - Tei!

You sure have grown!

You, too. You're an adult now.

Hatsuko is already 24.

Are you already married?

No. She's still single.

What were you doing in Tokyo?

She was working, but she's come home to stay.

Mother will put you to work again.

Too bad you didn't stay in Tokyo.

Living in Tokyo for four years

has made me realize how much I miss you all.

Please be good to me as before.

With Hatsuko here, I won't have to do kitchen work!

Hatsuko is not a maid. She's your older sister.

I came back to be of help to you all.

Shall I make dinner?

Please offer incense to Yuu and your father.

I'm sure they're very happy that you're back.

They both understand.

There is nothing to be ashamed of.

Ryuzo, and Yuu, Hatsuko has come home.

Father and Yuu will never grow old...

Had I died, I could've been like them, too.

Welcome!

I need some fish for tempura!

Can you prepare some mackerel for me, too?

Prepare this for the customer.

Here's the turnips, Nozomi.

I'll have mackerel, too.

What's good today?

How about flounder or tachiuo?

- I'll have the tachiuo. - Okay.

Come on and help me.

Shall I help you?

Can you prepare this?

Of course! I was raised a fish dealer's daughter, too!

It's been a long time.

You used to be at the old fish store!

I'm back again.

She's a fine woman now. You must be a proud mother.

Yes. Thank you.

I'll take a daikon radish, too.

Okay.

Pick out a nice big daikon radish for her.

I have tea for you.

Thank you.

It's been years since anybody made tea for me.

It's good...

The war in Korea has created a lot of jobs.

Many young women work in factories now.

If you want to take a job, go right ahead.

There's plenty of jobs out there for everybody.

I don't want money. I'm happy just being here.

But I could earn money to help our household.

Oh, come on. I'm not that poor!

Then I will just keep working here.

If we all work hard,

maybe we'll be able to afford to give you a nice wedding.

Shall we go to the bath?

Tei, we're going to the bath!

Why didn't you go to the bath with Hitoshi?

You're both so lazy.

I need to talk to you.

I'll be going then.

I've been thinking... and I want to study pottery.

I wrote a letter to a pottery master,

and he says I can study under him.

What's all this about pottery?

I want to become a potter.

I want to create things with my hands.

That's my dream.

But I've been holding back. I know you needed my help.

But Hatsuko is back now.

You don't need me. I'm not much help here anyway.

Don't be silly!

I haven't been teaching you about business

because we're short-handed! Don't you understand that?

- But, I... - Listen.

You are the sole surviving heir to Kaga-ya,

the biggest rice dealer in the city of Sakata.

The business is gone now.

But you have the responsibility of rebuilding Kaga-ya.

That's why I took you in.

I owe it to the Kaga-ya family and your mother

to see to it that you grow up capable.

It's my duty to see to it that you rebuild Kaga-ya!

But, Mother...

I wanted you to go on to college.

But both you and Hitoshi refused to go.

I've given up on the idea...

Business should be learned hands-on anyway.

So I wanted you to learn as we worked together.

That's why I made you come along with me.

I'm not suited for business.

How do you know without even trying?

I have done my best for four years.

And I realized it now.

I hate business!

Nozomi!

I'd rather do something I enjoy.

I don't want to bow down to people all the time!

It's not for me.

When I was small, I wanted to be an artist.

But then I began to get interested

in creating something for all to enjoy.

Not mere art objects,

but something that people can use in their daily lives.

Pottery is that!

And now, a teacher has invited me to study.

I like his work.

It's warm, simple, and yet strong.

I want to create things just like him.

Is it all right?

Hatsuko, Tei. Let's go to the bath.

Is it?

You haven't the time to waste. Pottery is just a dream!

If you waste your time,

you'll never be able to answer your calling!

Nozomi had always been the most obedient,

so his request came as a shock to Oshin.

Oshin could never let him follow such a silly notion.

Episode 231

I never knew my real parents.

I grew up thinking that the Tanokuras were my real parents.

Now I can't relate to being told that I'm the heir to the Kaga-ya business,

or that I have to one day re-establish that business.

Kaga-ya means nothing to me.

But Mother feels she owes a lot to Kaga-ya.

And she's made a promise to your real mother

that you'd re-establish the Kaga-ya business.

But this is my life!

My life doesn't belong to Mother, or Kaga-ya.

I guess so, but...

I'm not cut out to be a businessman.

I hate business.

I'd rather create things. Like a tea cup.

Don't you think that's more like me?

You sure are childish... You are 21,

yet you're still dreaming. How will you eat?

I never want to go through what we experienced

during and after the war ever again.

To live without money or material things is no way to live.

I never want to be poor again!

I managed to survive the war suffering and hunger.

That's why I don't believe in money or material things.

The reason Father had to die like that,

was because he believed in money and power too much.

I'd rather create...

Don't talk like that about Father!

He took responsibility for his own life.

I think he's great!

I respect him, too.

But I just don't want to live like him.

I want a life that's not swayed by the times.

And pottery offers me that.

I thought Mother would understand, but...

I never want to make her cry.

Ohisa gave us some noodles.

She's always giving us things.

Why did you get so many lobsters?

They won't sell. They're too expensive!

You told me I'd be doing all the buying, didn't you?

Don't you know by now what sells and what doesn't?

Ohisa told me to get them because they're cheap today!

I guess they'll stay fresh for a few days.

I'm taking Hatsuko with me to peddle fish.

The villagers will be so surprised to see her.

We used to visit them together as black marketeers.

I want you to stop dreaming.

How old do you think you are?

It's time you got serious about business.

If we all work hard together,

even our small store can grow and prosper.

The time is now to start getting serious.

I'm off to school!

I won't be able to come to the parental conference.

It's called the PTA.

Hitoshi will go in my place.

- Hitoshi? - I don't want to go!

They'll be discussing the students' advancement to high school,

so someone has to be there.

She's going to high school?

Women today need education, too.

So that they can support themselves.

Women can get into any university now, too.

You're lucky to be living in a time when all people are considered equal.

Study hard, and plan on going to college.

- Bye. - Have a good day.

Nozomi.

If you want to study pottery, go ahead.

Staying here won't do you much good.

Mother is telling you about Kaga-ya,

but we're having enough problems just making ends meet.

Who knows when you'll be able to have your own business.

I'm sick of just selling fish and vegetables!

I have my own dreams, too.

That's why I've helped Mother over the last four years.

I thought running a store would be more glamorous...

That's why I understand your frustrations

about wanting to start a new life.

I'm not despairing of this business.

I think Mother is right

in trying to establish a trusting clientèle by selling fish.

But business just isn't for me.

But the truth is, you want to leave here.

Hitoshi...

Don't worry about Mother.

Your leaving won't cause her to despair.

You plan to leave no matter what, don't you?

I saw you packing your things late at night.

I thought you were sleeping.

Make sure you leave a forwarding address.

I'll explain things to Mother for you.

I'm kind of envious of you.

You're lucky to be able to do what you want.

You have your dreams, too.

One day, you'll be able to have your own store.

Never mind that, but if you fail you can always come home.

I'm sure you'll learn your own limitations.

But make sure you give it your all.

And know when to give it up.

Mother keeps mentioning that you're 21.

But sometimes it takes that long for one to realize what one wants to do.

Because you are 21, you're able to make this decision.

Welcome!

You're the same Hatsuko who used to come here years ago with Oshin?

You sure have grown!

I didn't recognize you.

Please continue to patronize us.

Are you still single?

We'll have to find you a good husband.

There you go again!

- Welcome home. - We're home.

How did the PTA meeting go?

They said Tei will surely get into a prefectural high school.

That's good. Thanks for going to the meeting.

Where's Nozomi?

This is Nozomi's pottery teacher's address.

Mother...

I'm sorry to visit like this without notice.

I'm Yashiro Nozomi's foster mother.

I see. Please sit down.

I should've come to you sooner, but Nozomi didn't tell me anything.

I see. He left home without telling you?

I was against the idea of his leaving.

I don't usually take in students without their family's approval.

But Nozomi wrote me so many letters.

I was overcome by his enthusiasm.

He showed up yesterday with his belongings.

He said he wasn't going home. I couldn't just send him away.

I'm so sorry.

Nozomi told me about his family situation.

And I understand why you'd want to take him home.

But Nozomi's desires can't be ignored.

And he's such a fine young man.

You'll allow him to stay?

I can't guarantee that he'll be successful...

But with your approval,

I'd like to keep him here for a while.

Thank you very much.

But if you think he lacks talent,

then please send him home to us at any time.

I'm sure he will leave with no regrets

if he's done the best he could.

I know.

It takes more than hard work to become a potter.

It's my job as his teacher to let him know if he really has no talent.

If that's the case,

I'll send him home to you in time for him to find a different path in life.

He says it'll take you 10 years to become a skilled potter.

I'll be 60 by then. And if I'm still alive,

I want to have tea in a cup that you made.

So you'll let me stay...?

I can tell you're Okayo's son.

Okayo was a talented artist. She wanted to be a painter.

You will be realizing the dream she wasn't able to fulfill.

I suppose that's how it should be.

Have your teacher teach you well.

Someday...

I'll make you that tea cup.

Nozomi had finally left the nest.

Oshin returned home resigned to the fact,

that this was for the best.

Nozomi wasn't the only one to betray Oshin.

Another betrayal awaited her...

Episode 232

It was the summer of 1950.

Japan was entering a period of rapid economic development.

Oshin had opened up her own little store,

and Hatsuko had returned home. after a four-year absence.

But Nozomi had left home,

in order to pursue his dream of becoming a potter.

I'm surprised you came back without him.

It sounds pretty difficult being a potter.

Nozomi kept writing to his master

to win his approval and acceptance.

The teacher realized Nozomi was serious.

He says he'll gladly let Nozomi study for a while.

I'm impressed. He's got you convinced, too.

Nobody knows yet if he's cut out for it.

He might get sent home if he shows no talent.

Hard work alone doesn't make a potter.

I'm sure Nozomi was born with artistic talent.

His real mother loved to paint. She'd wanted to be an artist.

I guess he inherited his mother's talents.

I'm sure Okayo approves of his decision.

Nozomi will fulfill his mother's dream...

Yes. Painting or potter, it's all art.

I'm sure it's a good choice for Nozomi.

I'll visit Okayo's grave tomorrow to apologize,

and explain everything to her.

I was doing some figuring...

In spite of the fact that you peddle fish and I run the store,

we're not making much of a profit.

With rent for the store and gas for the three-wheeler,

we're barely making ends meet.

When will we ever get to expand the store?

If the four of us can eat, what's the problem?

We haven't been in business that long.

We should be grateful we're not losing money!

We can't make a profit from just fish and vegetables.

We should sell items that have bigger profit margins.

I'm saying that there's too much competition

in selling just fish and vegetables!

And we have to deal with spoilage, too.

We work too hard for too little profit!

Let's figure out some other day.

What do you want us to do?

We'll seriously figure it out.

Anything else will be just as hard!

We're dealing in foods people need each day.

The turnover is quick, and it's a sure thing.

But...

Rather than thinking of other ways,

it's more important to concentrate on what we're doing.

If you can't even sell fish, how can you do anything else?

I have lunch ready for you.

Mind the shop!

Bye.

Why did you buy a train ticket to Tokyo?

And why did you take money without telling me?

I'd meant to talk to you about it.

Are you really going to Tokyo?

You don't have any time for pleasure trips!

I'm going to Tokyo to get a job.

Get a job?

My friend from the Navy...

His father runs a store in Tokyo, and he's looking for employees.

You want to work as a clerk in a store?

Yes. I don't want to die as just a fish store owner in a country town!

My dream is to have my own store.

That's why I worked with you for four years.

My dream isn't to just sell fish and vegetables.

I have things I want to do on my own.

There's a limit to your way of doing things.

We can't just keep working so hard

for so little profit! If you won't change your ideas,

we'll forever be living hand- to-mouth as fish sellers.

You may be satisfied with that, but I want more!

Mother told us that once we get established selling fish and vegetables,

she's willing to try something new.

The way we do things,

we'll never have the money to try new venues.

We're barely making enough money to keep us fed!

I know only too well...

Hitoshi!

There is no use working the way we do.

I want to see how far I can go working in a bigger retail store.

What will you be able to do?

What will they let you do?

They'll just make you work. That's all!

It's better than selling fish and vegetables.

A department store has growth potential.

Hitoshi!

Nozomi got to do what he wants.

Why can't I?

Don't talk nonsense!

Nozomi is gone. You can't just leave, too.

Think how Mother feels!

Enough. He won't listen.

If you hate working here so much, you can go anywhere you want.

Mother...

You and Mother need to talk it over.

I'll run my store the way I see fit!

I don't care what you say.

So there's no use talking about it.

I feel better now... I'll leave tomorrow.

One more thing!

I won't give you any support.

You're responsible for your own future now.

Don't you dare come crying to me later!

If you leave, you'd better keep that in mind.

Let him go.

Stop him, or he will really go to Tokyo!

Let him go.

Even a mother and her son

sometimes have to go their separate ways.

But...

Mother.

Please take the day off from peddling today.

I don't want Hitoshi to leave while you're gone.

I'm sure he'll understand if you talk to him again.

He's not one to listen to me.

He'll be full of regrets if I keep him here.

Give him this money.

Tell him it's from you.

You and I can run this business. We have to!

Take care.

Take care of yourselves.

What about breakfast?

I have to make the train on time.

Mother will be home soon. Wait for her.

It's best if I don't face her now.

We have nothing more to talk about anyway.

Tell her that I left cheerfully.

You're really going?

Yes. My friend's getting a room for me there.

I'll contact you once I get settled.

Hitoshi...

Don't look so sad!

Study hard, and go to college.

Come to a college in Tokyo. I'll take care of you.

Make sure you contact us right away.

Be sure to write to Mother.

I will.

And...

Take this.

I don't need money, I have a job waiting.

It's from Mother.

Maybe you weren't meant to be cooped up here in this small town...

I'm sure you'll do better in a Tokyo retail store.

We'll visit you once you get settled.

I'll do my best...

Take good care of yourself...

I will.

Episode 233

Nice work.

Let's eat.

Hitoshi has gone?

He didn't want to miss his train.

Hatsuko...

The Korean War has brought us an economic boom.

The factories are looking for women workers.

Many housewives have taken these jobs.

But by the time they get off work,

all the stores are closed, and they can't shop.

Maybe we should keep our store open longer...

How can you be so nonchalant when Hitoshi is gone?!

You could've stopped him from leaving!

You were so cold to him...

So what?

If he wants to work in Tokyo, let him.

If it's not what he was meant to do, then he can always come back.

You told him he could never come home again...

I had to tell him that to make him persevere.

It's just the two of s now...

That's not so bad. Now that the troublemaker is gone,

we're free to run the place the way we want.

I'll keep selling out of the three-wheeler,

and you can manage the store for me.

- Mother. - Yes?

Rather than keeping the store open later,

why not take the three-wheeler to various factories

at closing time and sell there?

We could go after we close up here.

It'll be a lot of work...

But I think it's better than waiting for customers to come to us.

What a good idea! I never thought of doing that!

You sure have a good mind for business!

Nozomi had left to become a potter,

and Hitoshi was off to work for a Tokyo retailer.

Both of Oshin's sons had left home.

But she had no regrets.

She, herself, had left home once to find her own way.

Starting tomorrow, Hatsuko and I will be too busy to care for you,

so start doing more things for yourself from now on.

We will have to leave the house early in the morning,

and leave again late in the afternoon.

You will be lonely, but please bear with it.

And don't neglect your studies for your exams.

There's no need for you to worry about the business.

I can do the laundry, the cleaning and cooking.

We only have ourselves to count on now.

We can't rely on my brothers anymore.

Hitoshi has gone off to Tokyo,

and Nozomi probably won't be coming home.

Too bad... You worked so hard to raise them.

I just want all my children to be able to be on their own.

After you graduate from college, you can do what you want, too.

Hatsuko, too.

I want you to get married if the right man comes along.

Marriage isn't for me...

I'm always ready to be on my own.

That's why I want to work as hard as I can while I'm still able.

Your father and Yuu will always be with me...

And that's enough for me.

The following day,

Oshin began selling fish and vegetables

after hours near the busy factories in town.

- Welcome home. - We're home.

You sure were out late...

I had to wait for the people working overtime.

You get up early to buy the fish, then you go peddling during the day,

and you have to work until late in the evening.

You might wear yourself out. Hatsuko, too.

This is nothing compared to what I had to do in my youth,

or what I had to go through in Kyushu.

One can't ever complain about working hard.

- Have some tea. - Thanks.

- Here you go. - Thanks.

This is good...

After the war, our society changed.

People are free to do whatever they choose to do now.

Hitoshi and Nozomi are out on their own.

I'm finally free to do business as I choose.

I want to see how far I can go on my own.

I made osomen noodles for a late night snack.

That's so thoughtful of you!

Hitoshi wrote to me, and told me

that I should be helping you both more.

I guess he's still concerned about you and the store.

He only wrote to you?

No. There's one for you and Hatsuko, too.

Let me see.

Here.

He says he has gotten a room,

and he's going to be starting work soon.

His old Navy friend is helping him out a lot.

He's bought himself a dress shirt and a three-piece suit.

I guess he's always just worn windbreakers here.

He says he's required to wear a suit at the department store.

He also says he has a hard time finding a tie to match the suit.

That's what he gets for getting a job at a department store!

He says he's always wanted a job like that.

I'm sure he looks good in a suit.

He's tall and he's good-looking!

I guess you can't sell vegetables in a suit.

I suppose young people want to dress up.

He has left home, but he writes us letters.

Hitoshi is really nice.

Want some osomen now?

Yes.

- Are you Mr. Tanokura? - Yes, I am.

- Please come in. - Thank you.

Sit down.

You're here on the owner's recommendation?

- That's right. - How do you know him?

I was in the Navy with his son.

Let's see... About your job.

We'll have you doing deliveries.

We've started deliveries as a customer service.

We need more men in that section.

It's important work, so do a good job.

I will.

I see... Deliveries?

I know you got me the job,

but I wish I could've gotten a better position.

A delivery man just checks off merchandise on a list

and sends them out. Anybody can do that job!

I even bought this suit,

but I won't be able to wear it doing manual labor.

It's a waste of time...

I came out to Tokyo,

so I could do meaningful work at a department store!

I'm sorry...

I shouldn't be complaining to you.

It's just that I came here with dreams...

I'm sure I will get promoted if I work hard.

From what I understand,

you didn't even graduate from the former middle school system.

I thought about going back after I returned from the war,

but as you know, my father died,

so I had to help my mother out.

I had intended to run my own business,

so I didn't think an education was necessary.

Maybe so... If you're running your own business.

But when you work for a company, one needs a college education.

It was all my father could do

to get you the job you were assigned to.

I'm sorry.

No, I'm sorry.

I didn't have any idea that education was so important in getting a job.

I'm sorry that I caused you concern.

Hitoshi had been in Tokyo for three months now.

And Oshin's business was going very well.

Work was finally fun for Oshin.

Episode 234

[We now sell misozuke and kasuzuke fish.]

[And we also deliver to all areas.]

I've filled all our orders for today with this.

The economy must be really good for people

to be ordering kasuzuke sea bream!

Sea bream, shrimp and abalone kasuzuke

are all gift items for special occasions.

It's the season for gift giving now.

- These are for misozuke? - Yes.

Maybe it's a little too sweet.

They say it won't go with sake very well if it's too salty.

It's good! We can leave it like this.

If you say so.

We were able to get sea bream at a good price.

Such nice fillets.

Are you still at it?

You are overworking yourselves again!

Fish won't keep, so we have to get it done now.

You should be in bed!

Can I help?

It's okay. We only have a little more to do.

You work all day and all afternoon,

and you come home and work half the night.

Do you really have to...

Will you package the orders due out tomorrow?

I have the orders written there.

You and Hatsuko will both end up sick!

Just do one thing at a time.

It's not for you to worry!

Just study and help out with the housework.

Is this the misozuke for tomorrow?

That will do. The kasuzuke is underneath there.

Maybe it's all right for you,

but you're making Hatsuko work much too hard.

We should be thankful that we are busy.

We make preserved fish because people want them.

I remember you and Father used to make these

when I first came to live with you.

Your father and I used to think a lot

about ways of increasing our product line.

This brings back so many memories...

Let's work hard and build up our business to what it used to be!

We're almost there. Our profits keep going up.

I have an idea... It's colder now,

and people want to cook pot dishes at home.

So maybe we can make ready-to-cook pot dishes

with fish, vegetables and all the fixings.

We'll cut up the fish,

and for vegetables, we'll add some scallions,

edible chrysanthemums and Chinese cabbage,

so they can use it right away to make their pot dishes.

We can include tofu and konnyaku, too!

Yes. Pot dishes are big during the cold season.

And if it's pre-packaged, it'd be more convenient for people.

Let's start from tomorrow.

Yes!

You're just making more work for yourselves!

We have to put ourselves in our customers' shoes,

and make it more convenient for them.

Anybody can sell fish,

but with more competition out there,

new ideas become crucial. We wouldn't survive.

I give up!

Good morning, Oshin.

- Working hard as usual? - Yes. Good morning.

I have an unusual visitor. Drop by for some tea.

He came for special fish for his father-in-law's birthday.

I have it all ready for you.

I got you a really big sea bream, too.

Thank you for all your help.

You sure are good to your in-laws!

I don't do enough.

That's why I want to help celebrate his birthday.

Congratulations.

Kota is in line to inherit their family store.

They've just rebuilt their old location.

I hear your store is doing well, too.

Thanks to you and Hisa, I do fairly well.

Hitoshi is working in Tokyo now?

It must be hard to do everything yourself.

No.

Children all have to leave the nest one day.

With my husband gone, my job as his wife is done.

I'm ready to sit back and work for myself now.

The new times allow me to do things my way.

I want to enjoy myself now!

Oshin keeps coming up with new ideas.

She sells kasuzuke and misozuke fish that are cheap,

delicious and last long, so they're very popular.

I hear you sell a lot of that.

We used to preserve our leftover fish that way in the past.

So now I take special orders that we deliver all over.

I've been watching you for over 30 years now.

You had your difficult times, but I never heard you complain.

At last, your perseverance is finally paying off.

It's as you say. Your time has come.

If I can be of further help,

I'll be more than happy to help you out.

I want you to realize all your dreams from the past.

Live up to your possibilities.

Kota's words were heartwarming.

Oshin's grandmother had worked hard all her life.

Yet she never had white rice to eat.

Oshin had decided early on that her life

would not be like her grandmother's.

The old memories came flooding back...

All her dreams have not been fulfilled yet.

But it wasn't too late...

Oshin was full of thoughts as she drove home...

Finally you're home!

I was worried because you're so late.

Sorry, I was visiting Hisa.

We talked a lot about business, too.

We'd better start taking orders for New Year's fish and vegetables.

We have to secure our supplies, too.

Isn't it strange?

My letter came back, too. All stamped "Return to sender."

Did Hitoshi move?

It also says, "Forwarding address unknown."

I'm sure he would have told us if he moved.

I'm going to make a phone call.

What could've happened?

They say he quit his job 10 days ago.

He quit at the department store?

I asked what department he was working in.

They finally told me he worked in Deliveries.

He turned in his resignation and just stopped coming to work after that.

Why?

I asked, but they just said it was for personal reasons.

He was so happy to go to Tokyo.

I can see if he was fired, but why would he quit his job on his own?

Something probably happened,

but they wouldn't give me any details.

You know how he is.

He's not the type to back down from challenges.

But I can't believe he'd quit just like that...

Why don't you go to Tokyo and find out?

What's the use?

His old Navy friend would know.

Hitoshi is not a child anymore.

I'm sure he had his reasons for quitting.

It won't do any good for us to worry.

He will send us word soon enough.

Let's finish eating.

He's been out of work for 10 days now.

I wonder how he's managing.

I'm sure he can make it on his own.

That is why he quit his job, I'm sure.

If he can't make it on his own,

he'll never amount to much no matter what he does!

He left home saying he was going to carve his own path.

If he has the tenacity, he'll make it somehow.

I'm sure he plans to come home for New Year's.

I'm sure he'll come home.

Oshin had been in business for six months now.

It was now the beginning of 1951,

but there was still no word from Hitoshi.

He didn't tell you anything either?

No.

Mother wrote to me that Hitoshi had gone to Tokyo,

but Hitoshi never wrote to me at all.

I thought he was doing all right.

Here. Have more mochi.

I was looking forward to seeing him here during New Year's.

You think he means to stay away?

It's not like him to cause Mother to worry.

What if he's sick?

Otherwise, he would have written us.

Never mind Hitoshi.

I gave up on ever seeing him come home again,

when I let him go off to Tokyo.

He didn't want to sell fish and vegetables,

so why would he come back here?

I'm sure he is doing as he pleases.

Today is New Year's, so maybe he'll show up tomorrow, or the next day.

Let's play cards.

It's Hitoshi.

He's home!

Translation: UTB Channel

Thanks to Avallac'h and XrayMind at D-Addicts.